Seen here sparkling outside its hangar at Mojave, Al Letcher’s Warner-engined Ryan SCW, NC18914, looks fast even when it is standing still.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Ryan SC - СШАUSA - 1937

The 165 h.p. Super Scarab on Al Letcher’s SCW fits neatly inside the original blistered cowling and is almost indistinguishable from the 145 h.p. Scarab.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Ryan SC - СШАUSA - 1937

Al pulls the propeller through a few blades before starting.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Ryan SC - СШАUSA - 1937

With Cathy Hansen in the passenger seat, Al Letcher formates on the Cessna 152 owned by his good friend Al Hansen, Cathy’s husband.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Ryan SC - СШАUSA - 1937

A rear view shows the elegantly tapered wings. Getting their 37ft 6in span safely out of Al Letcher’s standard 40ft hangar requires care.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Ryan SC - СШАUSA - 1937

Originally powered by a Menasco engine, the prototype was re-engined with a Warner Scarab in 1937.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Ryan SC - СШАUSA - 1937

The Scarab installation on the prototype SC.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Ryan SC - СШАUSA - 1937

With its forward-raked undercarriage and multi-blistered cowling, Ryan SC prototype NC17372 shows off its slippery lines in the air.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Ryan SC - СШАUSA - 1937

The instrument panel is largely original, with a GPS and modern radio for the sake of safety. Visible underneath the panel is the Ford Model “A” fuel gauge.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Ryan SC - СШАUSA - 1937

The canopy can slide back 27in, and Al prefers to fly with it open.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Ryan SC - СШАUSA - 1937